Views from the embassy - student perspectives of the Science Student Ambassador Program

Presenter: Gerry Rayner, School of Biological Sciences
Co-author: Catherine Higgins, Faculty of Science

Abstract:

A growing body of research suggests that student leadership development programs can be extremely effective in promoting participant leadership skills and employability. Certainly, employers place high import on the value of leadership as a key competency in graduates.

The aims of the Science Student Ambassador Program are to promote the study of science, to strengthen the communication skills, leadership capabilities and self-confidence of student ambassadors, and to enrich the broader student experience by creating an opportunity for ambassadors to network with fellow science students and to actively engage as a member of the Faculty of Science community.

Ambassadors achieve this by assisting during orientation, presenting at Open Day, and participating at information evenings, school visits and careers events. To enhance the effectiveness of the program and recognize their contribution to it, ambassadors undertake a range of skills development workshops, including public speaking.

This presentation provides an in-depth analysis of participant expectations of, roles in, and perceived skills development and degree of workplace preparedness enabled by the Science Student Ambassador Program. The analysis will be based on survey data and information regarding the academic achievement and employment status of past and present ambassadors. The analysis and feedback will enable the Faculty to enhance the program by fine-tuning and value-adding to current activities and workshops.

View presentation (.pdf, 915KB)